Herminie Cadolle facts for kids

Herminie Cadolle (1845–1926) was a French inventor who created the modern bra. She also started the famous Cadolle Lingerie House. Herminie was born and grew up in France. She was a close friend of Louise Michel, who was involved in a big event called the Paris Commune of 1871.

After the Paris Commune ended, Herminie and her family were worried. They left France for safety and moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina. In 1887, Herminie opened a shop there. She sold custom-made underwear to her customers.

Who Was Herminie Cadolle?

From Paris to Buenos Aires

In 1889, Herminie Cadolle returned to Paris. She opened a similar workshop where she designed and made lingerie. It was here that she came up with a new two-piece undergarment. The bottom part was like a corset for the waist. The top part supported the breasts using shoulder straps.

Inventing the Modern Bra

Herminie filed a patent for her invention in 1889. This means she officially registered her idea. She showed her new design at a big event called the Great Exposition of 1900. By 1905, the top part of her invention was being sold on its own. This was the start of what we now call the modern bra.

Why Bras Replaced Corsets

Before bras, many women wore corsets. Corsets were very tight and shaped the body. They were briefly less popular during the French Revolution in 1789. This was because they were linked to rich people. But they soon became popular again.

By the mid-1800s, people started to criticize corsets more. People who supported women's rights, like Herminie Cadolle, and doctors said corsets caused pain. They also said corsets could lead to health problems.

Herminie continued her work into the 1920s. Her efforts became even more important during the First World War. Many women started working in factories because men went to war. For these jobs, comfort was more important than looking a certain way. So, corsets went out of style, and bras became popular.

Cadolle's Lasting Impact

Herminie Cadolle's invention and its different versions are still very common today. Her work helped women feel more comfortable. It also showed a desire for women's rights. It was a step away from old ideas about how a woman's body should look.

Cadolle became famous for fitting bras for important people. Queens, princesses, dancers, and actresses were her customers. Even the famous spy Mata Hari bought bras from her. Herminie was also the first to use fabric with rubber (elastic) thread. This made underwear more flexible. Cadolle's business is still open and running today.

See also

In Spanish: Herminie Cadolle para niños